Several Arrested at Techno Nightclub During Forceful Undercover Raid [WATCH]

Rabitza, a techno nightclub in Moscow was ras raided by undercover Russian police and several people were arrested early morning on Sunday, August 6th.

It’s not uncommon for police to shut down raves, of course — but this incident reportedly involved violence against partygoers and staff by the police team. Video footage below shows physical force being used, including one of the club’s cofounders being kicked while on the ground.

A source told Resident Advisor that several men in regular clothes showed up and started detaining people within the club. Eight members of the staff, and at least 10 attendees were taken into custody. One of the club’s cofounders, Ivan Radzievsky, was one of two people that were charged in relation to the raid.

“I haven’t seen such violence before in my music and club experience in Moscow,” one person told Resident Advisor.

Rabitza was also targeted a month ago by Moscow authorities, during a planned inspection in which police declared their presence before entering. The nightclub has sought out donations in hopes to remain open.

“We are compelled to defend ourselves and we ask for help from everyone who cares about the fate of the club,” Rabitza said in an official statement. “The collected funds will go to court hearings of the incident.”

Russian music festivals and clubs in have reportedly faced ongoing difficulties with local authorities.

Just got word that two nights ago club Рабица in Moscow, one of my favorite places in the city and where we recently recorded a Boiler Room show, was raided by the police, who used excessive and inappropriate force. Patrons of the club have been attacked by the police, beaten, hand-cuffed and members of the staff arrested, some of which are still detained under serious drug related charges. The video below (taken from here: https://www.instagram.com/p/BXcrx4JB7I2/) shows parts of the incident and police beating up innocent and peaceful visitors.Needless to say that this is a targeted attack by the authorities on one of the very few safe spaces in Moscow. My thoughts are with those affected by the raid. This is the reality of way too many people out there, and they need our support. Please share!